Dublin 4: €2.8 million Lisney is guiding €2.8 million prior to auction for number 3 Carlton Villas on Shelbourne Road, Dublin 4, a six-bedroom house that goes to auction on May 12th.

Home of the former Aer Lingus chairman Michael Dargan, the semi-detached is located within striking distance of Ballsbridge village and the city centre. The guide seems very much on the low side given the quality of the house and its privacy and convenience.

The 325 sq m (3,500 sq ft) house has a good mix of formal and informal reception rooms and most of its period features are intact.

An outer porch with pretty leaded hall door leads into a wide and welcoming hall which has ornate cornicing, mahogany floor and a feature staircase.

Off the hall there is an elegant diningroom with south-facing picture windows overlooking the front.

Also off the hall is a bright drawingroom with carved Adam-style chimneypiece. Twin picture windows also overlook the front.

Although these two grand reception rooms are quite welcoming, it is the the livingroom, to the rear of the house, which is the most homely.

This room has been extended and modernised over the years and has exposed trusses and a sloping pine ceiling.

Picture windows offer views of the pretty rear garden and a butler's pantry with fitted shelves offers great storage space.

Double glass doors lead to a spacious and sunny kitchen and breakfastroom, which has fully fitted units and extensive storage. French doors lead to the garden with a patio as well as mature landscaped gardens.

A utility room and guest toilet complete the downstairs layout.

The first floor return accommodates two bedrooms. Farther up the stairs and off an exceptionally bright landing are four more bedrooms, all with very high ceilings.

The large main bedroom is en suite and has a range of fitted wardrobes. The family bathroom also accommodates the hot press.

There is off-street parking for several cars, as well as a garage.